In this episode of The Literacy Mindset Podcast, Jeff Pendleton chats with Carrie Sebora, Director of Curriculum and Instruction at Soledad USD, about the power of building strong systems to support both teachers and students. Sebora shares her experiences working alongside educators to implement structured literacy practices, highlighting the importance of professional learning communities, coaching cycles, and collaborative goal setting. She emphasizes how consistent, research-based instruction paired with intentional teacher support can close gaps and drive student achievement in meaningful ways.
Carrie also opens up about the realities teachers face—time constraints, shifting mandates, and the challenge of balancing data with authentic student needs. Through practical strategies and candid insights, she explains how schools can strengthen their literacy culture without overwhelming staff. From tips on fostering teacher confidence to examples of successful schoolwide initiatives, Sebora brings a grounded, hopeful perspective on what it takes to move literacy forward.
Key Moments
03:45 Bridging Elementary and Secondary Education
09:01 Collaborative Educational Strategy Sessions
11:46 Unified Educational Standards Initiative
16:43 Assessing Data Needs for CIA Programs
20:21 Reading Comprehension vs. Fluency Issues
23:04 Improving Literacy Through Early Interventions
26:38 California Bans Cell Phones in Schools
30:17 "Collaboration and AI in Education"
31:25 Education Funding and Special Populations Concerns
Why You’ll Love This Episode
If you’re looking for realistic, actionable ways to elevate literacy instruction, this conversation is packed with value. Carrie Sebora’s thoughtful balance of instructional rigor and teacher empathy makes her insights especially relevant for coaches, administrators, and classroom teachers alike. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of how to create systems that empower educators, sustain momentum, and most importantly, help students become stronger, more confident readers.
Connect with Carrie Sebora
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What is Literacy Mindset?
The MindPlay podcast brings together education leaders to explore current and future K-12 instruction. Focused on curriculum, teaching, and innovation, it offers insights into literacy, personalized learning, and technology, helping educators improve student outcomes and drive meaningful change in schools.